Understanding the Minds Behind the Care: A Psychographic Study on Dementia Caregivers in Rajasthan

Abstract

Dementia affects more than 8.8 million people in India, with this number expected to triple by 2050 due to rising life expectancy and demographic shifts. As the burden of care overwhelmingly falls on family members and frontline workers, understanding the psychological, emotional, and motivational profiles of caregivers is critical. This pilot study presents a psychographic analysis of dementia caregivers in Rajasthan using a cluster randomised controlled design. Thirty caregivers were assessed using a structured questionnaire evaluating traits like emotional stability, stress, values, coping styles, and motivations. Findings indicate that while most caregivers are driven by love, duty, and empathy, they often suffer from emotional exhaustion and a lack of institutional support. The study highlights the urgent need for psychographic-based interventions tailored to caregiver profiles, which could improve both caregiver well-being and patient outcomes.